Christmas Activities in Kent
Discover the very best Christmas activities in Kent this season, from shimmering light trails and buzzing Christmas markets to enchanting family adventures and romantic date nights. Whether you're visiting Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, or Tunbridge Wells, the region transforms into a winter wonderland filled with Christmas events and memory-making experiences. Let our guide inspire your festive plans, then make Stone Court House your luxurious base for an unforgettable Christmas break.
Explore Kent's Best Christmas Markets
There's nothing quite like the festive buzz of Christmas markets in Kent 2025. Dive into a world of yuletide treats, handmade crafts and lively seasonal spirit with these unmissable choices:
Maidstone Museum Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, December 6th, 2025
Over 35 uniquely themed stalls offer handmade treasures and irresistible gifts, the perfect excuse to relish the festivities and stay at Stone Court House in Maidstone for the weekend.
Canterbury Christmas Market
Now - 24th December
Wander through charming wooden chalets, indulge in festive food, and soak up live entertainment across Canterbury's atmospheric city centre, a must for lovers of traditional Christmas activities in Kent.
The Pantiles Christmas Market, Tunbridge Wells
3rd - 18th December
Enjoy the elegant surroundings of The Pantiles while you browse artisan gifts and local produce, ideal for finding something extra special.
Castlemas, Tonbridge Castle
8th - 20th December
Experience Christmas markets with a twist, live music, a glittering ice rink, enticing food stalls and Santa's grotto set against the dramatic backdrop of Tonbridge Castle.
Christmas Lights Switch On Events in Kent
The magic of the festive season truly comes alive with Christmas lights switch on events throughout Kent. Here's where the county sparkles brightest this December:
Maidstone Lights Switch On
- Thursday, November 20 2025
- 4:30 pm to 7:00pm
- Jubilee Square
Kick off the festive season with a dazzling display and a lively community gathering.
Sevenoaks Lights Switch On
- Saturday, November 29 2025
- 3:00pm to 5:30pm
- Sevenoaks High Street
A highlight in the town's calendar, watch as Sevenoaks transforms into a Christmas wonderland.
Heathfield Lights Switch On
- Saturday, 22 November 2025
- 3.45pm – 6.30pm
- The Fire Station
Enjoy the big moment with glowing lanterns, entertainment and cheer filling every corner.
Tonbridge Lights Switch On
- Monday, 24 November 2025
- 2pm - 7.30pm
- Tonbridge High Street
Exciting stalls, music and joyful crowds, Tonbridge's display is a perennial favourite among Christmas events in Kent.
These switch on events signal the start of Christmas activities in Kent, why not add them to your trip itinerary for an extra dash of magic?
Family Christmas Activities in Kent
Create treasured moments with these family Christmas activities Kent offers, guaranteed to delight kids and parents alike:
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
- Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells
Climb aboard for a magical ride filled with festive music, steaming hot chocolate, and an enchanting visit from Santa, perfectly blending fantasy and fun.
Winterland at Bluewater, Greenhithe
- Now - 8th January
With an open-air ice rink, funfair rides, and a Christmas grotto, Winterland is a top destination for family Christmas activities in Kent.
Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival
- 3rd & 4th December
Step into a Victorian storybook with parades, costumed performers and traditional carols echoing through historic Rochester.
The BFG in Pictures, Knole Park, Sevenoaks
- Now - 23rd December
Captivating exhibition inspired by Roald Dahl's classic, combining beloved stories with Christmas cheer for all ages.
From jaw-dropping train adventures to living history festivals, Kent's festive line-up is brimming with ways to keep families entertained all December.
Christmas Date Nights in Kent
Share the magic of the season with someone special at these romantic Christmas activities in Kent, designed to spark joy and create unforgettable moments.
Ice Skating in Tunbridge Wells
- Calverley Grounds
Glide under the twinkling lights for a dreamy outdoor date, then curl up with mulled wine in the festive surrounds.
Wine Tasting at Chapel Down
- Tenterden
Warm up with a seasonal tour featuring mulled wine and sparkling tastings,a refined and romantic treat.
Tonbridge Christmas Village
- 24th November - 23rd December
Wander arm in arm through illuminated stalls, sample festive street food, and take in live entertainment for a classic Christmas market experience.
These festive date ideas in Kent add sparkle to the season, why not combine a night out with a sumptuous stay at Stone Court House for the perfect romantic escape?
Festive Shows, Events & Day Trips in Kent
Get your calendar ready, these festive Christmas events and performances across Kent create dazzling days out for all ages.
Dick Whittington & His Cat Pantomime
- Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone
- 29th November - 31st December 2025
Pantomime magic in Maidstone, laughter, adventure, and all the festive fun you'd expect at Christmas in Kent.
Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Pantomime
- Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury
- 28th November 2025 - 11th January 2026
A spellbinding family favourite set in Canterbury's iconic theatre.
Leeds Castle Christmas Experience
Explore a wonderland of festive activities, Santa's grotto and a sparkling shopping village in the heart of Kent.
Kent Life Heritage Farm Park
- Maidstone
Meet Father Christmas and immerse yourself in a world of festive farm fun, country traditions made charming.
If you're planning a Christmas in Maidstone or beyond, add these shows and day trips to your must-do list, and extend the magic with a stay at Stone Court House.
Christmas Walks in Kent
Breathe in crisp winter air and soak up the festive scenery on some of the best family winter walks in Kent, perfect for Boxing Day strolls or New Year rambles.
Knole Park, Sevenoaks
Step through ancient parkland and mingle with wild deer before relaxing with a hot chocolate in the on-site café,ideal for post-Christmas unwinding.
Leeds Castle Grounds, Maidstone
Combine a festive light trail visit with a walk among glorious castle gardens and sparkling lakes.
Bedgebury Pinetum, Goudhurst
Dramatic illuminated trails wind through pine forests, creating an enchanting atmosphere for all ages.
Shorne Woods Country Park, Gravesend
Well-marked woodland paths and open spaces make this a favourite spot for Christmas walks and family adventures.
With so many festive walks across Maidstone, Sevenoaks, and beyond, Kent truly is a winter wonderland, perfect for couples and families alike. Make your winter escape to Stone Court House and explore the seasonal charm just outside our doors.
Stay At Stone Court House This Christmas!
Experience Christmas activities in Kent in true comfort and style, book your festive getaway at Stone Court House, our hotel in Maidstone. With luxurious rooms, antique charm, and the best of Kent's Christmas events on your doorstep, your seasonal escape awaits. Reserve your stay now and embrace the magic of Christmas.
Ready to plan your festive break?
Indulge in Christmas activities in Kent and let Stone Court House be your home for the holidays.